For a nice walk, a bit of bouldering or both, head to Elephant Rocks. Sculpted by wind and rain, these funky outcrops give visitors a glimpse of the limestone that make the Waitaki Valley’s terroir so unique.

Not quite a gallery or a studio, Grainstore is an emporium of local artist Donna Demente’s larger than life paintings and sculptures and the ephemera that informs them. Climb up the stairs and be immersed in her creative world.

Poshtel has to be one of the most unique accommodation options around New Zealand. In keeping with one of Oamaru’s most notable personality traits, Steampunk, it’s filled with antiques and relics. The fascinating, grunty decor is paired with conscious design details which put this hotel into a league all its own: quirky yet luxurious.

River-T Estate vineyard and tasting room has the ‘largest selection of Waitaki wine in the world’. Sit inside or amongst the rows, sip a glass and get stuck into any of their locally sourced platters.

The epicentre of Steampunk culture where interactive art comes to life in a way that’s fun, spooky, antique and futuristic all at once. Steampunk enthusiasts from far and wide, travel to Oamaru to play the metagalactic pipe organ, check out the doomsday clock and more.

Local, Kevin Murdoch, restored this building and filled it with historical relics and an art studio. Pop in for a chat with Kevin and the other artist in residence, Al Bell - this is something of an alternative visitors’ centre.

Glamping with sweeping views of the Waitaki Valley, and hosts who know its every nook and cranny including the best summer swimming holes. Honeymoon, stay-cation, reunion, whatever the occasion, it’ll be best had here.